Not Quite Cops

CBS

What it is: Associated with law enforcement but usually not carrying badges or guns, these crime-solvers apply special skills and expertise -- often scientific -- in assisting cops with cases. Current example: "CSI," the show that launched a franchise and made the crime-lab technicians who collect and analyze DNA and other forensic evidence the stars of the show. Classic: "Quincy, M.E.," which starred Jack Klugman as a coroner who discovered evidence of foul play in the bodies he examined. Others: "Bones," "Crossing Jordan," "Da Vinci's Inquest"

What it is: Associated with law enforcement but usually not carrying badges or guns, these crime-solvers apply special skills and expertise -- often scientific -- in assisting cops with cases. Current example: "CSI," the show that launched a franchise and made the crime-lab technicians who collect and analyze DNA and other forensic evidence the stars of the show. Classic: "Quincy, M.E.," which starred Jack Klugman as a coroner who discovered evidence of foul play in the bodies he examined. Others: "Bones," "Crossing Jordan," "Da Vinci's Inquest" (CBS)

What it is: Associated with law enforcement but usually not carrying badges or guns, these crime-solvers apply special skills and expertise -- often scientific -- in assisting cops with cases. Current example: "CSI," the show that launched a franchise and made the crime-lab technicians who collect and analyze DNA and other forensic evidence the stars of the show. Classic: "Quincy, M.E.," which starred Jack Klugman as a coroner who discovered evidence of foul play in the bodies he examined. Others: "Bones," "Crossing Jordan," "Da Vinci's Inquest"